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Core team member at Zealicon'19


Unleashing Creativity
In the final year of my undergrad, I was entrusted with the responsibility of Management head of the college. Leading multiple teams in order to execute the tech+cultural festival, I embarked on a mission to make this project a prosperous one. From scheduling events, acquiring capital from sponsorships, communicating and marketing etc. I learned a great ordeal about project management. Little did I know that this immersive experience would equip me with skills and insights that seamlessly align with the world of product management. Join me as I reflect upon my journey, highlighting the skills and learnings that have shaped me into a versatile and effective professional. Here are some of the things that I picked up which I feel are both essential and productive.
Strategic Planning and Execution:
Managing a fest requires meticulous planning and flawless execution. From setting goals and defining objectives to coordinating various teams and activities, strategic planning becomes second nature. This ability to envision the big picture and break it down into actionable steps is a fundamental skill in product management. Just as I orchestrated the seamless flow of events, I now plan on applying this skill to develop and launch products that captivate audiences and achieve business objectives.
Stakeholder Management: As the head of a fest, I interacted with a wide range of stakeholders, including students, faculty, sponsors, and external vendors. Building strong relationships, understanding diverse perspectives, and effectively communicating with each stakeholder group became essential for success. These skills directly translate to product management, where stakeholder management is crucial for gathering requirements, aligning expectations, and ensuring collaborative success throughout the product development lifecycle.

Budgeting and Resource Allocation:
Running a fest involves managing budgets, securing sponsorships, and allocating resources effectively. I learned the art of striking a balance between limited resources and ambitious goals. This financial acumen and resource optimisation have proven invaluable in the realm of product management. I now navigate budget constraints, make data-driven decisions, and allocate resources wisely to deliver innovative and impactful products.
Creative Problem-Solving: No fest goes without its fair share of unexpected challenges and last-minute crises. As the management head, I honed my ability to think on my feet, make quick decisions, and creatively solve problems under pressure. This skillset is a vital asset in the world of product management, where adaptability and innovative problem-solving drive success. I leverage these skills to overcome obstacles, find unique solutions, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of product development.

Continuous Learning and Iteration:
Organising a fest provided me with a firsthand understanding of the importance of feedback, continuous learning, and iteration. I embraced feedback from participants and attendees, making iterative improvements to enhance their experience.

My journey as the head of an annual fest has been a transformative experience that will assist in my product management career. From strategic planning and stakeholder management to creative problem-solving and continuous learning, the skills and learnings acquired during my fest management days have seamlessly aligned with the demands of product management. Embracing this rich background, I am well-equipped to drive innovation, create user-centric products, and navigate the exciting challenges that lie ahead.

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